Sara Ries

https://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm101653.htm
This is a link to a website that will provide information on how to dispose of unused prescription medications. When you are recycling the bottles, make sure to peel off the stickers with your information on it. 
Back to the research on recycling uncommon things... Paint cans- Did you know that Home Depot will accept your old empty paint cans and clean and recycle them? I recently found this out when I was doing a home project. 
Another good resource is the Salvation Army and your local Veterans associations. They will often come out to your home to pick up old furniture, household items, tools, and many other things for a little to no fee. Often times they may just suggest a small monetary donation that is tax deductible.
There are also medical waste sites in many surrounding areas. They will often accept old or unused diabetic supplies, and sometimes sharps containers. Many pharmacies will also take used diabetic needles for a small fee. 
Chemicals like oil, gasoline, and other harmful or caustic materials can often be disposed of at a Hazardous Waste Disposal site, for example: http://www.wastedisposalhazardous.com/
The options extend even further than this...

The impact of food sovereignty is still at large in many countries today. Many programs have took the initiative to reduce food wastes and give back to their communities. One large step in action is keeping the "ugly" produce for other uses. Other actions from local companies like Starbucks, often give their unused perishable food items to local churches or food banks. The real question is; How can we help to implement more programs like these in other countries? Places in Africa are subject to some of the worst cases of food sovereignty still to this day. I vote for assistance with agricultural education tailored to their climate.

So I purchased a couple of metal straws from a local retailer, and have started skipping the staw. This challenge is taking longer for me to get comfortable with than others. I think it's because some restaurants automatically put the straws in your drinks for you. If I remember to inform the order taker ahead, than it seems easier. I'll save at least 2 plastic drinking straws per day; my daily ice water, and my iced-coffee or tea I get during lunch. 

I don't know how many people I've seen use plastic grocery bags at the check out, but it by far out numbers reusable bags. Those quick trips to the grocery store often follow with a trail of plastic bags. Unfortunately those plastic bags do not decompose. I'm doing my part by switching to reusable bags. I keep them with me in the trunk of my car so I won't forget.

It's so convenient to purchase our favorite  cup of coffee amidst our morning commute or when we want a recharge. With this ever-changing world, the daily hussle of life can sometimes hinder us from remembering to use our resources more wisely. I decided to purchase reusable coffee mug for my trips to coffee shops. They will often throw in a free drink when you purchase a reusable mug.  By using a reusable mug I am reducing the waste of about 193 paper cups per year!